The chimps at CSNW have their own ways of greeting us when we are opening up the chimp house in the mornings. This morning, I hadn’t turned on the lights yet on Cy’s group side of the building when I noticed he had already spotted me and was impatiently waiting for me to play chase with him. Honey B then came forward for a gentle hello and a kiss on the hand. On the other side of the chimp house, Burrito was also waiting for a morning game of chase. He was ready to go, while Jamie preferred to calmly groom my new Xtratuf boots. Shout out to the amazing donor that purchased them for me!
On the video you’ll notice that I greet Cy’s group in Spanish. Spanish is my first language, and is also a familiar language to this group of nine chimpanzees. Right after I was hired at CSNW, and before the group of six made their way over from California, I was contacted by a CWU Primate Behavior program colleague. Emily is a former caregiver at Wildlife Waystation and she messaged me to say that the chimps coming over from California used to be cared for by Hispanic caregivers that would communicate with them in Spanish. While the extent of their language comprehension remains unknown, I can only hope that it brings the same feeling of familiarity and comfort that it gives me.
Susan Kathleen Feeleyw says
What a great upbeat way to start the day and so much fun. Those darlings sure keep you all on your toes!
Linda C says
Buenas, Sofía!
El Sr Cy ya te quiere mucho, se nota! la.única que logra sacarlo de su “biblioteca”, jaja!
Honey B lo que quiere es un poco de Aroma del Cielo, por favor :stuck_out_tongue_closed_eyes:
I have always wondered if the person who named Negra was a Spanish-speaker, too, since in some countries it means “honey” or “sweetie” (which she is, of course!).
Thanks for thinking of us and having your camera at the ready so early in the morning!
Marya Barey says
Thanks, Sofia! I loved seeing Jamie grooming your boot and Burrito playing chase. What a way to greet the day!
Diane Kastel says
I contine to be amazed that Burrito has such a penchant for carrying, wooden, blocks in his mouth. I have not seen, any, other of the chimps do this.
Marcie says
Sofia I have suspected that the hispanic caregivers used to also dance with members of Cy’s group causing all the head bobbing and Gorito’s (as he was affectionally called) and Terry’s bunny hops. I watched an old news clip where one caregiver mentioned speaking in Spanish to them also. If you get a little time please try music and dancing enrichment. It may bring back fond memories for them. Thanks for all your caring work.
Kathleen says
Hi Sofia! I think it is wonderful you can speak to them in a language that’s familiar to them (besides English that is!). Seems it makes no difference if they understand every word or not, the sounds are familiar. Comforting. They would clearly remember/recognize certain words, correct? If they have been spoken to in Spanish, why wouldn’t they understand, especially a morning greeting. (rhetorical question :slight_smile:) Have you ever asked them to do something in Spanish to see their response? Anyhow, as you can see, I love knowing they are bilingual. Thanks for letting us know.
I can only imagine the chimps anticipation each morning while they wait for your arrival. The excitement knowing the people who make things happen (food and play!) are coming soon. For you caregivers, to be greeted by any one of them must be a marvelous way to start your work day. Nice to know you are appreciated.
Tobin says
No puede haber duda, Sofia, de que sus palabras. son musica para los oidos (relativemente grandes) de Gordito y sus amigos.
Deanna says
Buenos Dias!!! Yes! The caregivers did speak spanish and I love this post! Thank You for continuing to expose them to the language as I would imagine it would be familiar to them! I loved seeing Cy Boy in his game of chase at the begining. Making sure uou get your morning work out in!!! Between him and Burrito you must be fit as a fiddle!!